Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact
Enacting HB81 would not only enhance access to occupational therapy services through the mutual recognition of licenses among member states but also bolster the ability of states to protect public health and safety. The compact preserves each state's regulatory authority, ensuring that safety and practice standards are maintained across state boundaries. Moreover, it supports the needs of a unique population—military spouses—by simplifying the process for them to maintain their professional licenses when moving due to military assignments.
House Bill 81, known as the Occupational Therapy Licensure Interstate Compact, aims to streamline the practice of occupational therapy across state lines. The main goal of the compact is to facilitate easier interstate practice by allowing occupational therapists and assistants who hold licenses in one member state to practice in other member states without the need for additional licenses. This is particularly beneficial for improving public access to occupational therapy services, especially for individuals in rural areas or those requiring specialized care that may not be available in their home state.
While HB81 is designed to facilitate better access to occupational therapy services, it also raises important considerations regarding the enforcement and oversight of practice standards. Concerns have been raised regarding how adverse actions against licensees would be managed between states, and whether member states have adequate systems in place to monitor and enforce compliance with practice standards and regulations. Additionally, the intricate involvement of telehealth services within the compact underscores the need for careful consideration of privacy protections and data sharing among states.